The resale market is booming, and as new handbag lovers take interest, more and more bags are ending up on resale sites like Fashionphile, The RealReal, and Rebag. Now more than ever people are turning to consignment or just outright selling their bags for a multitude of reasons. Whether it be to get some cash, move away from bags they’ve gotten over, or to play the reselling game like stock, I’ve created a guide of what to sell now to help make those money moves a little more lucrative.
Vintage Novelty Chanel
Since Chanel’s most recent price increase, many collectors have decided to part ways with their flap bags hoping to profit off of them on the resale market. Unfortunately it seems everyone had the same idea, flooding the market with various styles of flap bags, and now some seasonal flaps are even listed as low as $1,500 (though most classic flaps are selling in the $3,000-$4,000 range). There are a lot of Chanel flaps listed in the $6,000+ range on popular resale sites like Fashionphile, but the truth is those aren’t moving as fast unless they are special edition or a super desirable combination. But, what a lot of big reselling companies have been offering more than usual for is Vintage Novelty Chanel. Vintage pieces like the Jumbo Hardware Flaps, Vanity Bags, and 90’s – 2000s baguettes are selling out fast.
Vintage Gucci
Styles like the Jackie, Bardot, and Boston bag were already slowly making their way back into the hands of collectors since Gucci first decided to do a vintage revival. Bamboo styles have also been on the rise, as well as bags with tassel details. But the fashion house is not only bringing back retro silhouettes, they are reintroducing vintage colorways and hardware details as well. These new bags borrow heavily from their vintage predecessors, as archived styles were directly referenced in the design process. This has not only helped make Vintage Gucci more relevant, but it has created a greater demand for it on the resale market. Though these styles will still probably not bring in the biggest buck, interest in them has definitely risen and if you’ve been sitting on some old school Gucci now might be the time to let it go.
Special Edition Lady Dior, Book Totes & Saddle Bags
Like Gucci, Dior too has been looking to its past for inspiration. The Dior Saddle bag has seen a major comeback, especially after its big influencer push in 2018. Vintage styles are being scooped up at more than double of what they were previously going for on the resale market. A personal favorite of mine, the Dior Book Tote, has also seen mainstream success. With its simple shape and intricate patterns this bag is fetching over retail for certain styles, like the “Palm Tree Toile De Jouy” version. But if classics with a twist are more of what you’ve got, special edition Lady Dior bags seem to always be priced high, and move fast. So if you’re sitting on any of these styles then it might be a good time for you to sell.
Louis Vuitton’s Hype Bags
Out of all the premier designers, Louis Vuitton has become the most synonymous with hype culture. For those of you who are new to the scene, “hype” culture is a generational phenomenon where consumers obsess over particular items and trends that are often highly limited and heavily promoted. Shoppers are seemingly motivated by the thrill of obtaining the latest pieces and the status that it brings. Their recent collaboration with Supreme has been one of the most hyped and has Epi backpacks going for over $13,000 on StockX. Any limited edition collectors pieces will bring in big money right now, as those are the pieces people want. The Teddy collection has also been very popular, with high price points and limited availability, so if you have one of these bags and are ready and willing to let go this is your time. It also appears as though the Multi Pochette is here to stay, and if you want it bad enough it will cost you well over retail. Resellers like Fashionphile have the Khaki version listed at $2,995.
Small & Mini Hermès Bags
The Kelly Cut and Pochette styles have always been hard to come by hits. The clutch interpretation of the Kelly made its debut at the 2004 fall runway show, designed by none other than Jean-Paul Gaultier. The resale of these styles can really range depending on color and leather type, but often start in the $7,000 range on most resale sites. Small, easy to carry bags like the Constance never go out of style and generally retain their value well, but haven’t been as in demand as the mini Lindy and mini Bolide, which both have recently been dominating the resale scene. Mini Lindys have even been listed for more than Birkins. Fashionphile has some listed in the $8,750 – $13,500 range while Birkins start in the $7,000 range. The mini Bolide has also been in high demand on the resale market, often ranging from $4,000 to $10,000 depending on the color. So if you have one of these tiny beauties and need an extra chunk of change, it maybe a good idea to move on from them now.
If you’re considering joining the resale world but have questions please comment below, as we’re hoping to cover more soon!
Nothing beats the original Lady Dior though.
Well if you really want to make some good profits then your bags should be in perfect condition and comes extra items such as a dust cover, a certificate, name tags and etc. otherwise not worth to pay any $$$$ to buy a second hand bags in my opinion. I will never EVER buy any second hand items for myself btw but for some people seems it doesn’t matter.
You’ve never bought anything second hand?!
With price increases and quality issues, for the first time I’m considering buying used Chanel. Fear of getting a superfake prevents me from taking the leap.
Your opinion seems to be in the minority as some resale sites are probably making more profits then the actual brands. Most of my expensive bags are second hand, and it’s not like anyone would know unless I tell them. I got my Chanel flap with the box, dust bag, cards, and some protective covering still on the hardware for under $2000. I got a fendi jumbo BBag in great condition for $30 at a goodwill and I get compliments on it every time I wear it and if I chose to sell it I could probably make a good $400 off it based on the current selling price. If buying only brand new makes you feel special please continue doing so, I’ll keep shopping second hand and no one will be able tell the difference between my bags and yours ?
I’ve definitely purchase many bags on resale websites, and have gotten great deals on them. There are also some brands like Chloe where you can find new-condition bags for half off, so why would I pay retail? I’ve also had some luck in buying second bags for a good discount, using them for a couple year, and then subsequently being able to sell them for a (small) profit!
I think there is a negative stigma about buying second hand that used to be more mainstream, but with sustainability and longevity of products becoming more of a priority, people’s focuses have shifted. Resale has helped make quality handbags more accessible and more people are starting to see the value in owning a few really nice bags vs a bunch of lower quality bags. Most of my bags have had lives before me, most if not all my Hermès is vintage. I think it’s really special ??
I own a resale store and often get limited edition, rare, and discontinued items. The thrill of seeing these items is the best!
I agree re: purchasing resale/second hand and many times no-one can tell the difference. I have bought several bags from resale sites because they are new or in excellent condition (they look new) and I have saved thousands of dollars. However, I don’t buy Hermes Birkin’s resale because they can be double the price of retail. I am fortunate (?) to have an Hermes store where I live so I buy Birkin’s at retail, which are still expensive. Chanel can be listed higher on resale sites than boutiques, with exceptions. My latest purchase was resale, but new (boutique fresh) and I paid half the retail price. I’m very particular what condition resale bags are in though because I don’t like bags with obvious wear.
Great, relevant article! What’s fun is hunting down a special designer bag in like-new condition at an awesome price.
This is the kind of article we need right now! Your articles are always so informative,
Ugh…when I buy new I’m too scared to use them. I know wear will reduce resell and I’ve spent so much I want them to stay pristine (a personal problem). When I go to resell the perfect handbag, I take a huge hit. The only bags I’ve been able to use with abandon are those that are pre-loved.